Just two days after winning his first IndyCar race in nearly two years, Will Power topped the timesheets during an open test session around the Milwaukee Mile oval.
That was not the only similarity between the test and the recent race at Road America, as Josef Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin also matched their results by finishing second and third on the charts.
The test served a dual purpose, giving drivers a change to sample the Milwaukee oval that is back on the schedule after a long absence as well as giving the entire paddock a chance to complete a final test of the new hybrid system.
The hybrid components will be introduced during a live race weekend at Mid-Ohio, just a few short weeks away.
Tuesday’s running meant that most all of the series’ full time teams could make their final evaluations of the electrified system, and drivers could get used to the multiple regeneration methods available.
The test was successful overall, with no noted mechanical issues from any parts installed on the 20 cars that participated.
After allowing open running for a couple hours, the series enforced a race simulation of sorts, including pace laps and a red flag period.
All went well, and drivers were able to focus on learning the Milwaukee course as much as they were the hybrid systems.
“Yeah, it’s great to be here,” said Graham Rahal, who ended the day with the 10th best time. “I love it. I’ve always loved the Mile.
“I think it’s a tremendous challenge. Great racetrack. Everything that they’ve done to spruce up the pit lane, fix that mess, get the boxes looking nice and everything, is very much appreciated.
“It was beautiful, awesome today. It was great to be back here turning laps. I think it’s particularly coming off Road America, these are two of the best in the country, right here in Wisconsin. Great day.”
The veteran also commented on the use of the hybrid components, relating how it will take time for him to get used to the new controls on his steering wheel.
“Not [second nature] by any means,” he continued. “I think when you’re up in high rpms and stuff, that’s not where it’s efficient. Same in the street car.
“When you’re up doing a qualifying lap, high in rpms, the feeling is really nominal. But, as I said, coming off the corner, low rpms, race running, things like that, it’s quite a large effect, which is cool.
“Even for me today, in my car, they changed basically my entire steering wheel from two days ago to today to add the buttons and change things around. There was a lot in my brain today as far as to figure out in a short period of time. I think it will become more second nature.”
Some teams will have another test with hybrid components later in the week on the Nashville Superspeedway, then the real test will come July 5-7 during the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio.
